Ideas for items to keep on hand in case of respiratory virus illness

I was recently sick with Covid and while I was recovering, I thought making a list of things that helped me through it might help someone else who's sick with a respiratory virus. I offer no medical or nursing advice here, and recommend that you see a doctor if you need to. But these are items or resources that helped me with managing my condition at home. This is not an all-inclusive list, but may help you have some essentials on hand in case you get sick.

Over the counter (OTC) medications

• Not all OTC medications are safe or appropriate for all people. They can interact with prescription medications, herbs, supplements, and certain health conditions. If you aren't sure which OTC medicines are safe for you to take, please discuss with your doctor.

• For me, the following medications helped my symptoms:

  • Acetaminophen and ibuprofen for the fevers and body aches

  • Cough syrup (I used Robitussin) - in our house, two people went through a small bottle in a day when the cough was really bad, so keep that in mind. Be mindful that many cough syrups contain other medications in them (look at ingredients).

  • Ointment rub for the chest with menthol/camphor (like Vicks) to help with cough

  • Cough drops

  • Nasal saline rinse - I prefer the one in a can with a nozzle that goes into the nostril and a button to release mist

• Steam showers - I didn't take scalding hot showers, but rather let the hot water run to steam up the bathroom, then took a comfortable warm shower. I did this several times a day. Really helped with the cough and congestion. Be aware frequent showers can dry out skin, so make sure to moisturize.

• Home Covid tests

• Knowing where to get a Covid test and care

• A reliable thermometer

• Masks - KN95 or better if you can get them (be wary of fakes out there) - surgical/procedure masks aren't ideal, but if they're all you have, they may offer some protection

• Paper products

  • Tissues - I used regular tissues for a couple of days until my nose became irritated, then I switched to tissues infused with lotion which were very helpful

  • Toilet paper

  • Paper towels

  • Napkins

• Hand lotion - frequent handwashing can dry out and irritate skin

• Soap - practice frequent and good handwashing

• Lip balm - mouth breathing can dry out lips quickly

• Humidifier - we have forced air heat in the house which makes the air very dry, a humidifier in the bedroom was helpful

• Orange or your favorite juice - frozen concentrate or pantry stable

• Long life fridge items that would make easy, quick, simple meals

• Canned soup - I lost my appetite (and sense of smell/taste) during Covid, and all I wanted was basic soup

• Saltine crackers - only thing that sounded good for days to me was soup and crackers

• Pasta stuff - microwave packets of pasta, sauce

• Teas

• People to help you - a support system

• Pet care arrangements - the last thing I felt like doing was walking the dog in 20 degree F temperatures with a fever and body aches

• Grocery delivery service if you have one available

I made this list for respiratory viruses such as Covid, flu, or colds. Other illnesses may need other items to manage at home (for example, stomach bugs need different care, etc.). I hope this helps you have some things on hand to stay prepared, and please remember to seek care from a physician if you need to.

Stay healthy,

Jeannette